There’s an accessory that’s been grabbing interior designers’ attention. It’s easy to implement, complementary to all aesthetics, and grounding. Although it isn’t new, per se, this décor item is finding its place as an “it” piece this year. Enter the area rug—a reminder that every room deserves to have a soft landing. An area rug makes “a world of difference to your room’s overall aesthetic,” says LA-based interior designer Breegan Jane. “They provide visual warmth and easily enhance colors used throughout the space.” Just as Jane suggests, rugs have a way of enhancing the vibe and function of a room. They add warmth to chilly hardwood or tile floors, and a dose of color to an otherwise minimal room. The key is to find the right one—in texture, size, and material—so it lasts. So where do you start? Designers Breegan Jane, along with Kate Lester of Kate Lester Interiors and Kyra Schulhof of Fayette Studio offer their insight for decorating with an area rug. Plus, we’ve rounded up the best places to buy rugs online. Featured image by Michelle Nash. Image of Hayley Pannekoecke’s home by Nikole Ramsay Tips for Decorating with an Area Rug #1: Lay It Where You Need Warmth An area rug is an easy solution for cold feet, says Jane. “Place it under your bed to provide a carpet feel while alleviating the morning chills.” The same goes for where you need a bit of warmth in the living room, bathroom, or even kitchen. #2: Go for Color or Neutral—or Both A brightly colored rug will add interest to a space. But if you’re worried this will be too much, follow Lester’s lead and layer a colored runner over a neutral jute rug. “This will give a pop of color and texture but will assure that you don’t overwhelm the room,” she adds. #3: Aim for Balance Neutral-colored rugs, particularly made of woven natural material like jute or wool, are ideal for grounding a space “without taking away from fabrics and artwork,” says Lester. If you have bold art and brightly colored walls, a neutral, simple rug is best. “It’s all about balance.” #4: Consider Your Needs If you’re placing an area rug in a high-traffic room, such as a living room, Schulhof suggests sourcing one made of an indoor/outdoor material like high-quality nylon or recyclable PET. “Sustainability and eco-friendliness are becoming increasingly important,” she says. Image of Molly Madfis’ home by Nicki Sebastian The Best Places to Buy Rugs Online Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Block Shop If you don’t know about the stunning wares of this sister-founded textile brand, you must. The block-print collection, which is designed in LA and made in India, consists of unique patterns and colors, including the most gorgeous rugs around.
Block Shop Caramel Crane Rug This modestly sized stunner gives an entryway or kitchen a dose of interest and warmth.
Caramel Crane Rug, $285
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The Citizenry Known for its robust collection of artisan-focused goods, The Citizenry’s rug collection is vast and impressive.
The Citizenry Lalita Wool Area Rug Although it’s neutral, this wool rug has a geometric design that adds a finishing detail to a living room.
Lalita Wool Area Rug, $1,095
Ruggable One of the vastest collections of rugs online. The best part is this design source offers every size, texture, color, pattern, and price point imaginable.
Ruggable Verena Soft Wool Rug The light cream and pink are complementary for a nursery, bedroom, or even an ethereal living room.
Soft Wool Rug, $219
Urban Outfitters Chances are, if you’re looking for a well-priced home accessory, Urban Outfitters has it—and their expansive area rug collection is no exception.
Urban Outfitters Checkered Woven Shag Shag Rug A checkered print and nubby detailing gives this area rug a bit of patina.
Checkered Woven Shag Shag Rug, $399
Amazon Leave it to the online behemoth to have a stellar area rug collection that encompasses prints and patterns galore, plus an exceptional array of natural jute options.
Nicole Miller New York Patio Country Danica Area Rug All in the details: This option is proof that indoor/outdoor rugs are stylish.
Patio Country Danica Area Rug, $19.39+
Walmart A jute rug is always a good design idea. Make that: a stellar design idea. But it can run pricey. Thankfully, Walmart has one of the easiest places to find a well-priced jute area rug that works within a modest budget.
Agro Richer White Border Jute Rug High quality jute will last and last, thanks to its natural rugged texture and antimicrobial qualities.
White Border Jute Rug, $75.70+
Target Consider every area rug price point, aesthetic, texture, and size covered here.
Project 62 Diamond Shag Area Rug One design trend that’s proven to have staying power is the diamond rug—and it’s sticking around for this season.
Diamond Shag Area Rug, $230
Salam Hello We’re fans of Mallory Solomon’s collection of one-of-a-kind handwoven Moroccan rugs for its artistry and tradition. They are pricey but imprint on a home for a lifetime.
Salam Hello M’rirt’s Mauve Blush Numidia Hand-Knot These are a giant investment, but worth it given their quality and heritage.
M’rirt’s Mauve Blush Numidia Hand-Knot, $3,621
Rugs USA With a range of affordable to pricey options, as well as those hand-picked by designers (including our friend Arvin Olano), Rugs USA has one of the most robust online area rug selections.
Rugs USA Ivory Parker Check Area Rug A woven stitch combined with neutral cream and white makes this rug an option for most styles.
Ivory Parker Check Area Rug, $435
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